Al-Kadhimiya Mosque, located in the Kadhimiya district of Baghdad, is one of the most important sites of worship for Shia Muslims. It houses the tombs of the seventh Imam, Musa al-Kadhim, and the ninth Imam, Muhammad at-Taqi. The mosque, with its gol... more
Al-Kadhimiya Mosque, located in the Kadhimiya district of Baghdad, is one of the most important sites of worship for Shia Muslims. It houses the tombs of the seventh Imam, Musa al-Kadhim, and the ninth Imam, Muhammad at-Taqi. The mosque, with its golden dome, minarets, and ornate interiors, is a fine example of Islamic architecture. Thousands of pilgrims visit the mosque every year, particularly during the commemoration of Muharram and other religious observances. less
Al-Mutanabbi Street in Baghdad is the historic center of the city`s intellectual and literary community. Named after the 10th-century poet Al-Mutanabbi, this street is lined with bookshops selling everything from new and used books to rare manuscript... more
Al-Mutanabbi Street in Baghdad is the historic center of the city`s intellectual and literary community. Named after the 10th-century poet Al-Mutanabbi, this street is lined with bookshops selling everything from new and used books to rare manuscripts and periodicals. It`s a vibrant and bustling street, filled with the energy of people engaged in animated discussions, debates, and readings. Every Friday, a street market adds to the lively atmosphere. Despite a bombing in 2007, Al-Mutanabbi Street has retained its cultural significance and continues to be a symbol of Iraq`s rich literary tradition. less
Al-Shaheed Monument, also known as the Martyr`s Memorial, is a stunning modernist monument in the capital city of Baghdad. It was built in the 1980s to commemorate the Iraqi soldiers who died in the Iran-Iraq War. Designed by renowned Iraqi architect... more
Al-Shaheed Monument, also known as the Martyr`s Memorial, is a stunning modernist monument in the capital city of Baghdad. It was built in the 1980s to commemorate the Iraqi soldiers who died in the Iran-Iraq War. Designed by renowned Iraqi architect Saman Kamal, the monument is an enormous split turquoise dome, symbolizing the ancient Mesopotamian sun disc, located in a peaceful park with a museum, library, and exhibition halls. It`s a thought-provoking site of memory and reflection. less
The Al-Ukhaidir Fortress is an impressive 8th-century Islamic castle located in the desert about 50 kilometers south of Karbala. Built by the Abbasid caliph As-Saffah, the fortress is a fine example of early Islamic architecture, with its large court... more
The Al-Ukhaidir Fortress is an impressive 8th-century Islamic castle located in the desert about 50 kilometers south of Karbala. Built by the Abbasid caliph As-Saffah, the fortress is a fine example of early Islamic architecture, with its large courtyard, a four-iwan mosque, and residential quarters. The fortress, made from baked brick, has remarkable heat and cooling systems suited to the desert climate. The well-preserved ruins make the Al-Ukhaidir Fortress a captivating visit. less
The ancient city of Babylon was one of the most influential civilizations in world history. Located near the modern city of Hilla, it was the cultural and political center of the Babylonian empire, known for its wealth, its great walls, and the legen... more
The ancient city of Babylon was one of the most influential civilizations in world history. Located near the modern city of Hilla, it was the cultural and political center of the Babylonian empire, known for its wealth, its great walls, and the legendary Hanging Gardens, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. While much of the ancient city has been lost, the site still holds the ruins of notable landmarks such as the Ishtar Gate and the Lion of Babylon. A visit to Babylon offers a trip back in time to the era of one of the world`s earliest and most influential civilizations. less
The Basra Museum is one of Iraq`s most important cultural institutions. Housed in a former palace of Saddam Hussein, this museum displays a vast collection of artifacts that offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region, from the Sumerian perio... more
The Basra Museum is one of Iraq`s most important cultural institutions. Housed in a former palace of Saddam Hussein, this museum displays a vast collection of artifacts that offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region, from the Sumerian period to modern times. Visitors can see ancient tablets, statues, coins, and other archaeological treasures that tell the story of the civilizations that once thrived in this region. less
Ctesiphon Arch, or the Archway of Ctesiphon, is the remnants of the ancient city of Ctesiphon, once the capital of the Parthian Empire. The main attraction is the Taq Kasra, the largest single-span vault of unreinforced brickwork in the world. Built... more
Ctesiphon Arch, or the Archway of Ctesiphon, is the remnants of the ancient city of Ctesiphon, once the capital of the Parthian Empire. The main attraction is the Taq Kasra, the largest single-span vault of unreinforced brickwork in the world. Built in the 3rd century AD, this arch is a testament to the architectural prowess of the Parthians and an iconic symbol of Iraq`s rich history. less
Dominating the city of Erbil, the Erbil Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world. This imposing mound, with its labyrinth of winding streets and alleyways, houses several historical build... more
Dominating the city of Erbil, the Erbil Citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world. This imposing mound, with its labyrinth of winding streets and alleyways, houses several historical buildings, including the Mulla Afandi Mosque and the Qalat, or the keep. The citadel is a testament to the city`s long and rich history, with archaeological evidence of occupation dating back to at least the 5th millennium BCE. less
The ancient city of Hatra, located in the Ninawa Governorate, was a fortified city during the Parthian Empire. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hatra is known for its well-preserved temples, statues, and fortifications, characterized by a unique blend o... more
The ancient city of Hatra, located in the Ninawa Governorate, was a fortified city during the Parthian Empire. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hatra is known for its well-preserved temples, statues, and fortifications, characterized by a unique blend of Hellenistic and Roman architectural styles with Eastern decorative features. The city withstood several Roman invasions due to its formidable defences. Today, it stands as a remarkable testament to the architectural grandeur and fortification techniques of the Parthian Empire. less
The Imam Husayn Shrine, located in Karbala, is one of the holiest sites for Shia Muslims. It is the burial place of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed during the Battle of Karbala. The shrine, with its glistening golden... more
The Imam Husayn Shrine, located in Karbala, is one of the holiest sites for Shia Muslims. It is the burial place of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who was killed during the Battle of Karbala. The shrine, with its glistening golden dome and minarets, is a magnificent architectural feat and an important place of pilgrimage, especially during the month of Muharram, when the Battle of Karbala is commemorated. less
Lalish is the most sacred temple of the Yazidi faith, located in the mountains of northern Iraq. It`s a complex of white stone buildings, centered around the tomb of Sheikh Adi ibn Musafir, a central figure in Yazidi faith. Thousands of Yazidis make... more
Lalish is the most sacred temple of the Yazidi faith, located in the mountains of northern Iraq. It`s a complex of white stone buildings, centered around the tomb of Sheikh Adi ibn Musafir, a central figure in Yazidi faith. Thousands of Yazidis make a pilgrimage to Lalish each year, especially during the autumn Feast of the Assembly. The site, surrounded by picturesque mountains, offers a unique insight into the Yazidi faith and culture. less
The Marshlands of Mesopotamia, also known as the Tigris-Euphrates marshlands, are a unique aquatic ecosystem located in southern Iraq. Once the largest wetland ecosystem of Western Eurasia, these marshes are home to a rich variety of bird and aquatic... more
The Marshlands of Mesopotamia, also known as the Tigris-Euphrates marshlands, are a unique aquatic ecosystem located in southern Iraq. Once the largest wetland ecosystem of Western Eurasia, these marshes are home to a rich variety of bird and aquatic species, and have served as the traditional dwelling of the Marsh Arabs or Ma`dan for millennia. Although drained during the Saddam Hussein era, efforts have been made to restore this vital ecosystem. In 2016, the Marshlands were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. less
The National Museum of Iraq in Baghdad is a treasure trove of artifacts that tell the story of human civilization, right from its cradle in Mesopotamia. It contains artifacts from the Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian civilizations that once flouris... more
The National Museum of Iraq in Baghdad is a treasure trove of artifacts that tell the story of human civilization, right from its cradle in Mesopotamia. It contains artifacts from the Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian civilizations that once flourished in the region, including statues, carvings, and cuneiform scripts. Highlights include the famous Warka Vase and the Mask of Warka. Despite looting during times of conflict, efforts have been made to recover and preserve this vast collection of antiquities. less
The ancient city of Nineveh, located on the eastern bank of the Tigris river, was the largest city in the world during its peak in the 7th century BCE. As the last capital of the Assyrian Empire, Nineveh is rich with history and archaeological signif... more
The ancient city of Nineveh, located on the eastern bank of the Tigris river, was the largest city in the world during its peak in the 7th century BCE. As the last capital of the Assyrian Empire, Nineveh is rich with history and archaeological significance. The site is home to the remains of the city wall, palaces, and the famous library of Ashurbanipal, which held one of the greatest collections of cuneiform documents of the ancient world. Though damaged over the years, Nineveh remains an important historical site. less
The Abbasid Palace, also known as the Abbasid Caliphal Palace, is a historic palace in Baghdad, dating back to the Abbasid Caliphate of the 12th century. Although only a part of the original structure remains today, it offers a glimpse into the grand... more
The Abbasid Palace, also known as the Abbasid Caliphal Palace, is a historic palace in Baghdad, dating back to the Abbasid Caliphate of the 12th century. Although only a part of the original structure remains today, it offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Baghdad during the Abbasid era. It showcases Abbasid architecture with its arched doorways and intricate geometric designs. The palace, now a cultural museum, overlooks the east bank of the Tigris River, providing a beautiful view. less
The Great Mosque of Samarra is an iconic 9th-century mosque located in Samarra, Iraq. It was once the largest mosque in the world and is recognized for its distinctive spiraling cone, the Malwiya Minaret. This unique minaret, with its spiraling ramps... more
The Great Mosque of Samarra is an iconic 9th-century mosque located in Samarra, Iraq. It was once the largest mosque in the world and is recognized for its distinctive spiraling cone, the Malwiya Minaret. This unique minaret, with its spiraling ramps for a muezzin to call for prayer, offers a panoramic view of the city and the Tigris River. Though partly damaged in recent years, the mosque and the minaret are symbolic of Iraq`s rich Islamic history and architectural heritage. less
The Murad Pasha Mosque, located in the city of Kirkuk, is a historic mosque dating back to the Ottoman era. Known for its beautiful dome and two minarets, the mosque was built in the late 16th century by Murad Pasha, an Ottoman governor. The mosque a... more
The Murad Pasha Mosque, located in the city of Kirkuk, is a historic mosque dating back to the Ottoman era. Known for its beautiful dome and two minarets, the mosque was built in the late 16th century by Murad Pasha, an Ottoman governor. The mosque and its surrounding areas form a lively part of the city, with nearby markets and cafes adding to the vibrant atmosphere. less
The Tomb of Prophet Jonah, located in Mosul, is a significant religious site revered by Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. It was believed to house the tomb of Prophet Jonah (known as Nabi Yunus in Arabic), famous for his biblical story involving a... more
The Tomb of Prophet Jonah, located in Mosul, is a significant religious site revered by Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. It was believed to house the tomb of Prophet Jonah (known as Nabi Yunus in Arabic), famous for his biblical story involving a whale. The site included a mosque and a tomb within a shrine. Despite significant damage in recent years, the site remains of great religious and cultural significance. Restoration efforts are underway to preserve this important piece of Iraq`s cultural heritage. less
The Ziggurat of Ur is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Iraq, dating back to the 21st century BCE. Built by King Ur-Nammu, this massive step pyramid was part of a temple complex that served as an administrative center for the city o... more
The Ziggurat of Ur is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Iraq, dating back to the 21st century BCE. Built by King Ur-Nammu, this massive step pyramid was part of a temple complex that served as an administrative center for the city of Ur. Despite damage and decay over millennia, substantial portions of the ziggurat still stand, providing a fascinating glimpse into the architectural practices of the ancient Sumerians. It`s a must-see for history enthusiasts and serves as a remarkable testament to the ingenuity of ancient civilizations. less
